Category: Lifestyle

17 most underrated sci-fi films – Mind bending trip

The recent moviegoing experience is often overshadowed by event films like marvel and DC blockbusters which are predominantly sci-fi in nature. The genre keeps pumping out these visually overwhelming films that are m mostly backed by captivating CGI characters battling each other somewhere in Space or mostly in the USA. While it is easy to look over the sci-fi genre as popcorn flicks that entertain the masses, there are some hidden gems lurking inside that definitely deserve your attention. 

Our relationship with the digital world is rapidly changing. The prominence of AI and machine learning is seemingly beginning to reach the mainstream thanks to tools like ChatGPT. As we all know, films and any form of art actually is a reflection of the society that either showcases people a mirror or predicts the future in some form or the other. The changing landscape of the world surely hasn’t reached the point where a Tony Stark-Esque billionaire is building his very own Ultron in his backroom science lab (or maybe there is? but it surely begs us to ask the question – What if?

This curiosity among humans surely will not be explored for the longest time but there are films that have charted this territory really well. In our 17th anniversary special edition, we wanted to have a look at all the best sci-fi films that sadly remained underrated. Check them out right now – 

Snowpiercer (2013) 

Bong Joon Ho definitely won all the laurels and even an Oscar for his film Parasite but it was long before that when he directed the post-apocalyptic thriller Snowpiercer. It was based on a French graphic novel and revolves around humanity losing its battle against global warming which results in another ice age. The remnants of humanity take to a self-sustaining circumnavigational train which has a segregated class divide in it. Besides being an interesting sci-fi film, it also is a chilling portrayal of the class divide and how it might stay prevalent even at times of a global wipeout. 

Edge of Tomorrow (2013)

Edge of Tomorrow is undoubtedly one of the most underrated films ever by Tom Cruise. The sci-fi time loop film actually ended up being loved more on home video than in the theatres which is surely a tragedy given how good it actually is. It is a smart spin on two sci-fi tropes that are time travel and alien invasion that barely loses its touch through the entire runtime. Plus the lead pair Tom Cruise and Emily Blunt are surely a treat to look at through the crisp runtime of nearly two hours. 

Blade Runner 2049 (2017)

I remember walking into a theatre to watch Blade Runner 2049 as a college student and scratching my head the entire time to figure out what was going on. It was only half a decade later when I revisited the film and understood the underlying themes of existentialism it so beautifully portrayed. The film revolves around Ryan Gosling’s character K who is charged with retiring machines. Here, machines are more human than the people who mercilessly order their deaths. His path soon becomes intertwined with Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) and the two are forced to team up to solve a mystery. 

Annihilation (2018)

Paramount studios did not do right by this film as it was released in February, a month that is not associated with blockbusters to any degree in Hollywood. The result? Annihilation became an uncelebrated addition to the list of forgettable sci-fi films when it actually deserves the opposite of it. The film made its way to Netflix just three weeks after its theatrical release where the OTT audience surely appreciated it. The film revolves around a group of explorers entering a mysterious zone where plants and animals are rapidly mutating due to an alien presence. 

The Adjustment Bureau (2011)

Another Emily Blunt sci-fi film makes its way to the underrated list. What can we say? She’s a phenomenal actress still waiting for her mainstream appreciation. The film revolves around a United States congressman David who discovers his ‘Free Will’ decisions were actually being dictated by a mysterious group known as the ‘Adjustment Bureau’. When one of the events of David’s life does not go as planned by the bureau, his life goes haywire. The film is not just a fantastic sci-fi watch but also has undertones about secret societies and the notorious Illuminati. 

Minority Report (2002)

For a film released in 2002, the Steven Spielberg directorial Minority Report was undoubtedly way ahead of its time. The film was surely a box office success when it was released 21 years back making $358 million against a budget of $102 million. However, its prevalence in recent times stays fairly underrated. The Tom Cruise starrer is set in the year 2054 where a specialized police department titled ‘Precrime’ arrests criminals before a crime is committed by them using a foreknowledge technology called ‘Precogs’. While the film’s main theme sounds pretty straightforward, it dives deep into the mind-bending concepts of determinism, free will, government interference, and citizen freedom. 

Arrival (2016)

When we think about an alien invasion film, our perception leans towards over-the-top action entertainers like Republic Day. However, director Denis Villeneuve wanted to bend people’s expectations with Arrival and successfully did the same. The film dives deep into the contemplative nature of an alien invasion rather than an apocalyptic one and emphasizes forming contact with the extraterrestrial. Amy Adams leads the way in this film as a linguistic professor tasked with forming contact with the aliens. 

Dune (2021)

Maybe if Dune did not release in the middle of the pandemic then it could’ve received a greater box office reception. However, it failed to get the cash registers ringing as expected even with an amazing critical response. The film is based on Frank Herbert’s novel Dune and primarily covers only the first half of the book. A sequel is in the making and will be released in 2023. Set in the distant future, the film revolves around the noble House Atreides being forced to go to war against the hostile desert planet of Arrakis. 

Ex Machina (2014)

Alex Garland’s directorial debut was made on a humble budget of $15 million and managed to not just double its money at the box office but also earn two Academy nominations. The film revolves around the story of a young programmer named Caled who is selected in a lottery to participate in a top-secret experiment revolving around an AI. The film revolves around the AI learning what it means to be a human. 

Ad Astra (2019) 

There are only a few sci-fi films that are based on the psychological genre. The film revolves around an astronaut who ventures into space research in order to find his lost father. The film will remind viewers of the animated film Wall-E where humanity’s greed has driven it beyond just Earth and onto the Moon. 

Her (2013)

 

Before Joaquin Phoenix ruled the box office with his spine-chilling performance in the film Joker, he made us believe that humans and artificial intelligence can be deeply in love. Her is a refreshing take on the dystopian world trope as it showcases a tender viewpoint of what ‘smart’ devices are capable of. The film is beautiful and packed with raw emotions that are sure to make you tear up. 

Lucy (2014)

Scarlett Johansson’s Lucy was made on a modest budget of $40 million but ended up earning a massive $463 million at the global box office. Johansson plays the character of Lucy in the film that gains psychokinetic powers after a bag of drugs is absorbed into her bloodstream. The film explores the limitations of our brain and what can happen once it is unlocked. 

Alita: Battle Angel (2019)

Moviemaking bigshots James Cameron and Robert Rodriguez joined forces to make Alita: Battle Angel. The film was an adaptation of one of the most beloved mangas of all time. While James Cameron was set to direct the film, he got busy directing the super-successful Avatar franchise. 

Gravity (2013)

Gravity managed to bag 7 Oscar wins including Best Directing and Editing, however, still remains criminally underappreciated by the general audience. The film revolves around Dr Ryan Stone on her first space mission who meets with an accident. 

The Adam Project (2022)

It is a tragedy that a film featuring Ryan Reynolds, Zoe Saldana, and Mark Ruffalo remains underrated. The film revolves around a time traveller/fighter pilot Adam Reed stealing a jet in order to go back to 2018 and save his wife’s life. 

Looper (2012)

Looper is packed with action, thrill and sci-fi mixed in a time loop setting. The film is based in a distant future where time travel exists but can only be afforded by the rich as it’s a luxury. Whenever a mob wants to get rid of someone, it sends the target into the past where the protagonist is hired to finish the job. 

High Life (2018)

Robert Pattinson has featured in a number of whacky films before he picked up the mantle of Batman. High Life revolves around the character of Monte and his daughter who struggle to survive in space. While its IMDB rating stands at an abysmal 5.8, it surely is one of the best sci-fi films of all time.

17 wardrobe essentials for women

Being dressy has its cons, and that’s when essential clothing was introduced. The new year has just begun, and everyone is trying to get better by setting resolutions, manifesting goals, joining a gym, and decluttering closets. Now, some of you will ask, why declutter? Well, you can’t have a better life when the things you own end up owning you.

Essentials no. 1

Little Black Dress

The little black dress is a timeless and classic piece that every woman should own. It is versatile and can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re going out on a date or attending a formal event, an LBD is a surefire way to look chic and put-together.

Essentials no. 2

White T-Shirt

A white t-shirt is a staple every woman should have in her wardrobe. It is a versatile basic and is perfect for layering. Whether you’re wearing it with jeans and sneakers for a casual look or with a pencil skirt and heels for a more formal look, a white t-shirt is a must-have.

Essentials no. 3

Blue Jeans

A great pair of blue jeans is a must-have for any woman. They’re not only comfortable but also versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re running errands or going out for a night on the town, blue jeans can make all things fall into place.

Essentials no. 4

White Button-down Shirt

The classic white button-down shirt makes you look crisp and clean, making it perfect for work attire, as it projects a put-together image. It can be paired with jeans and sneakers for an everyday look or dressed up with a skirt and heels for a more formal event.

Essentials no. 5

Blazer

A blazer is an excellent addition to any wardrobe. It can be worn over a dress or with pants for a more formal look. It’s perfect for the office or a night out. A blazer can add a sophisticated touch to any outfit, making it a must-have for any woman’s wardrobe.

Essentials no. 6

Trench Coat

A trench coat is a classic and timeless piece that can be worn for any occasion. It’s perfect for keeping you warm and dry on rainy days and can be dressed up or down. A trench coat is a versatile and practical piece that every woman should own.

Essentials no. 7

Cashmere Sweater

A cashmere sweater is a luxurious and comfortable addition to any wardrobe. It can be worn alone or layered over a shirt. Cashmere is a warm, lightweight, breathable material that is perfect for colder months.

Essentials no. 8

Black Heels

A pair of black heels is a must-have for any woman. They’re comfortable and can be worn for work or a night out. Whether you’re wearing them with a dress or with jeans, a pair of black heels is a versatile piece that every woman should own.

Essentials no. 9

Knee-length Skirt

What adds a style quotient to your wardrobe? Of course, a knee-length skirt as it adds comfort to your everyday outfit. The charming knee-length skirt can be paired with a variety of different tops and adds a touch of femininity to any outfit.

Essentials no. 10

Handbag

A handbag is a necessary accessory for any woman, and it’s perfect for carrying all of your essentials. A handbag can add a touch of style to any outfit as they add comfort, convenience, and confidence to our daily life.

Essentials no. 11

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are necessary to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, but they can also be stylish accessories to complement any outfit.

Essentials no. 12

Scarf

A scarf is a versatile accessory that can be worn in many different ways. It’s perfect for layering or for adding a pop of colour. If you have varicose veins, wearing a scarf can help strengthen and increase blood flow to that area.

Essentials no. 13

Statement Jewellery

Almost every woman likes to wear jewellery as it symbolises femininity and showcases social status. Statement jewellery is a great way to add some sparkle and style to any outfit. It also makes a woman feel confident and beautiful.

Essentials no. 14

Watch

A watch is a timeless accessory that every woman should have in her wardrobe as it elevates an outfit’s overall look. It is both functional and fashionable, and like inheritance, watches can be passed down from generation to generation and even become family heirlooms. 

Essentials no. 15

Flats

A pair of flats is a comfortable and versatile addition to any wardrobe. They can be worn for work or for a casual day out. Flats are a great alternative to heels and can be worn with any outfit. A good pair of flats is a must to heal heel pain.

Essentials no. 16

Black Pants

Black pants are a versatile basic that can be worn for work or for a night out. They are a great alternative to blue jeans, and can be dressed on any occasion. A good pair of black pants is a must-have for any woman’s wardrobe.

Essentials no. 17

Black and White Stripe Top

A black and white stripe top is a versatile and timeless piece to have in your wardrobe. It has been around for decades and is a staple in fashion. You can pair it with a blazer and trousers for a more formal look and pair it with jeans and sneakers for a more casual look.

17 wardrobe essentials for men

Being well-dressed is the easiest way to show who you are. However, in a world of fast fashion, we often ignore the ever-green track and follow the trails of seasonal trends. We know fashion is fickle and going to stay for a short time, but the urge to have that trendy piece of clothing controls our minds, and we end up overstuffing our wardrobes.

FASHION Vs STYLE

Two broadly used phrases by the young generation even though they are baffled about them. Let’s make it easy, fashion is more about dressing as per the trends, while style is more about being yourself. Being in style and having certain wardrobe essentials will always help you to stay fresh, no matter the time of year.

Essentials no. 1

Pale Blue Oxford Shirt

The button-down long-sleeve Oxford shirt in a pale blue hue is a timeless option. The shirt will serve as a smart casual for any occasion, and it’s the perfect accompaniment to black or white trousers, a navy-blue suit, dark blue jeans, shorts and even a light brown chino.

Essentials no. 2

Pair of Black T-Shirts

Black colour brings confidence and is often associated with intelligence and sexuality. When styling a black t-shirt, only the sky is the limit, as it looks elegant on everyone and everything; it doesn’t matter whether you are heading to work, a party, or a date.

Essentials no. 3

Statement Jewellery

When our country was abundant and prosperous, we had men who liked to wear pieces of jewellery. Even today, we have men who like to wear a modish bracelet and a stylish ring as it adds a statement to their already hyped look.

Essentials no. 4

Grey Jeans

Black colour suits best with grey and when you’re having the heft of black coloured clothes such as shirts, and t-shirts, then you can’t avoid grey coloured jeans. When you wear black and grey together, it brings a soothing vibe to your look.

Essentials no. 5

Chelsea Boots

Many people perceive that Chelsea Boots or any boots are only made to suit cool weather, but it’s not true. One can wear Chelsea Boots on a day-to-day basis, as they’re easy to wear and look good on casual as well as formal outfits.

Essentials no. 6

Denim Shirt or Denim Jacket

When you add layers to your clothes, you automatically look dapper, and denims are best to add layers, be it a denim shirt or denim jacket. They won’t weigh you down, as they are made for all seasons, always in style, and on-trend and add a look you’ve been looking for.

Essentials no. 7

Leather Belt

Now that you have seen most of the wardrobe essentials, it’s time to hold them together with something and what’s better than a leather belt? Wearing a leather belt helps accentuate your figure, style an outfit, or add colour to an entity.

Essentials no. 8

Black or Navy Suit

Don’t underestimate the power of a suit. We often avoid buying a suit as it costs a lot of money, but it is a versatile staple for your collection. You might need a suit on a few occasions as no one really wears it casually, which sums up the value of a suit.

Essentials no. 9

Grey Joggers

You must have seen Hollywood celebrities getting papped in grey joggers. Yes, that’s where they emerge as essential. Grey joggers are easy to style and look classy when paired with mid-top sneakers, bright-coloured hoodies, sweatshirts, or even t-shirts.

Essentials no. 10

Pair of Sweatshirts

Sweatshirts are one of the must-have wardrobes in men’s essentials as they are comfortable to live in. They’re soft, warm, lightweight, and made to be a part of your lazy laundry schedule. The comfortable athletic wear can be paired with denim, shorts and joggers.

Essentials no. 11

Blue and Brown Chinos

Chinos are the preppiest legwear option out there in the market, and whether you agree or not, we all need to get a little formal in life, and chinos are best to have a business casual look. They look best when combined with sneakers or boots.

Essentials no. 12

White Sneakers

Nothing to say about white sneakers, as most of us already own one. The white sneakers trend started back in the 20th century as a street style look, and it landed in the 21st century as a wardrobe classic, and indeed, they’re not going off the trend anytime soon.

Essentials no. 13

Pair of Polo T-Shirts

If you are looking for a middle ground between button-down shirts and t-shirts, then Polos are the best, as they’re professional and offer relaxation at the same time. While shopping for polos, buy only the ones that equip you well.

Essentials no. 14

Socks and Innerwears

We often ignore the reality that socks and underwear are as crucial as outer clothing and don’t invest much time and money in them. One should own at least three pairs of socks and inner wears and should not go on with the same after 6 months.

Essentials no. 15

Bomber Jacket

Bomber jackets were initially designed as flight jackets for pilots to wear during World War II, but over the years, they earned a spot in the wardrobe essentials of men. They are warm, versatile and can be worn across the year.

Essentials no. 16

Shorts

Shorts are one of the most favoured outfits of the year as they offer the comfort you want. As a tropical country citizen, comfort and airflow are more important than the protection of the legs, and that’s where shorts get the spot in our wardrobe.

Essentials no. 17

Suede Loafers

Suede Loafers are your solution to smart-casual footwear problems, as they are comfortable and a wiser choice than sneakers as they are simple to get on and off. Suede Loafers keep your feet comfortable all day long and look stylish with both casuals and formals.

2022 in Numbers

2022 is almost down and we’re all set to welcome 2023. Before we walk into the new year, let’s take a quick look at the best events of 2022.

  • The world population strikes the number 8 billion. Sadly, it took only 12 years to grow from 7 billion to 8 billion.

  • Novak Djokovic created history by becoming the third male player after Roger Federer and Nadal to win 20 Grand Slams.

  • The first successful heart transplant from a pig to a human patient occurred in Baltimore, Maryland, United States.

  • Beijing hosted the 2022 Winter and Summer Olympics and became the first city to host both events in the same year.

  • Russia began a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, despite international condemnation, and became a reason for the death of 6,655 civilians, including 429 children.

  • The World Health Organization (WHO) declares the recent monkeypox outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, as the number of cases exceeds 17,000 in 75 countries.

  • After a period of 6-months, in October, Elon Musk completed his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter.

  • After a historic 70 years on the throne Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch, died at the age of 96.

  • Argentina beat France in a thrilling game of the FIFA final and won the cup after a drought of 36 years. Lionel Messi ended his football career perfectly, but Kylian Mbappé steals the show and almost a cup.

Best Films of 2022 – Supreme Entertainment!

2022 felt like a breeze at the movies after the gloomy pandemic times. The Indian audience especially was at a unique place as we got to enjoy films portraying different cultures, languages, and stories across the country while the big Hollywood blockbusters also made their way to the cinemas. 2022 was not perfect for films as the boycott culture took over Bollywood, but films were appreciated and celebrated nonetheless. Here is a look at the best films released in 2022. 

Note – This list does not rate films thus the mentions are in no specific order

Top Gun: Maverick

Starting off with the biggest blockbuster of the year. Tom Cruise flew his way to the theaters piloting the Grumman F-14 Tomcat fighter jet and won our hearts. The sequel for the original Top Gun film was long overdue but Tom reportedly did not want to reprise the role of Maverick for a cash-grab project. With Top Gun: Maverick, Tom Cruise cemented the fact that he is still a box office cash machine and perhaps the last of the stars. 

RRR

While RRR was expected to make a splash at the Indian box office, nobody expected the SS Rajamouli directorial to carve its place in global pop culture. The film was screened at the esteemed TCL Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles where Americans were seen doing the ‘Naatu’ dance, a treat to say the least! The film currently has a lot of Oscar buzz around it even though it was not nominated from India. After conquering the American box office, RRR also shined in Japan making it a true Indian global blockbuster. 

Everything Everywhere All At Once

If you want to feel what an acid trip feels like without actually taking any then you need to watch The Daniels’ directorial right away. This film explores the concepts of the multiverse better than Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness by a mile (Sorry Marvel!) The film revolves around the character of Michelle Yeoh who is coursing her way through an existential crisis, dealing with family troubles, and… the IRS?! You’ll get what I am talking about once you watch this mind-bending film. 

Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers

Who thought that a Chip ‘n Dale movie in 2022 will be anything else but a cash grab? 2022’s direct-to-Disney+ film Chip ‘n Dale: Rescue Rangers was a breath of fresh air amid corporations trying to use the nostalgia bate in order to put butts in the theatre seats. The film follows the titular characters thirty years after the television show has gone off-air. Chipmunks Dale and Chip live different lives but are forced to reunite when a cast member of the original show mysteriously disappears. People who love pop culture are in for a treat as the film is filled with fun references, even an ugly Sonic one! 

Gangubai Kathiawadi

This twisted tale of Gangubai Kathiawadi surely loses its steam by the time it ends but successfully builds a world, characters, and set designs that are awe-inspiring. The film is based on S. Hussain Zaidi and Jane Borges’ spine-chilling book ‘Mafia Queens of Mumbai,’ and showcases Ganga’s rise to power from a sex worker to a celebrated queen of Kamathipura in Mumbai. Alia Bhatt’s performance in the film was widely appreciated and the film lit up at the box office at a time when big superstars failed to get the cash registers ringing. 

Rocketry: The Nambi Effect

Rocketry: The Nambi Effect marked R. Madhavan’s directorial debut. The film was not just critically claimed but also made decent collections at the box office. The film is based on the life of ISRO scientist Nambi Narayan and spans across his days as a graduate student at Princeton University to getting accused in the ISRO espionage case. The film premiered at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival and was released in multiple languages. SRK fans can enjoy his extended cameo in the Hindi version of the film. 

Jhund

What happens when celebrated Marathi director Nagraj Manjule and the legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan collaborate on a film project? The result is the captivating film Jhund which leaves the audience stunned with its honest portrayal of kids growing up in slum areas. The film is based on the life of football coach Vijay Barse, the founder of Slum Soccer NGO, and how he gets slum kids hooked on a sport to distract them from nefarious activities. 

Chandramukhi

2022 was the year of regional films in India and this Marathi film took people by surprise! The Prasad Oak directorial film revolves around the love story of a Tamasha singer/dancer and a rising politician. The film is a period piece that explores the concept of adultery, relationships, women’s exploitation, and the influence of politics on people’s lives. The film was based on Vishwas Patil’s novel of the same name – Chandramukhi. 

Kantara

This film was a case study for Indian filmmakers on changing audience behavior. While a film like Kantara could easily get smashed between blockbusters before the pandemic, it managed to become one of the biggest hits in the post-pandemic era. The film revolves around the conflict between humans and nature with a twist of Bhootha Kola. The film depicts Supreme God Vishnu’s third incarnation on earth called the Varaha Avatar. The riveting climax made Kantara a must-watch for cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike. 

Bullet Train

If you’re a fan of the Quentin Tarantino genre of films then Bullet Train is the perfect fit for you. You must have seen situational comedies but how about a situational crime thriller? The film revolves around five assassins boarding a fictionalized version of Japan’s bullet train and all hell breaking loose! It features an ensemble cast of Brad Pitt, Sandra Bullock, Bad Bunny, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and a surprise cameo I would not like to reveal. Watch it for the laughs, thrills, and exhilarating climax! 

The Batman

The only superhero movie worth mentioning in this year’s top films is Matt Reeves’ directorial The Batman. While Marvel had a lukewarm year in 2022 with only Black Panther: Wakanda Forever being an amazing film, DC had its fun with The Batman and Black Adam. Matt Reeves’ iteration of the caped crusader was somehow darker than its previous versions featuring Ben Affleck and Christian Bale. One can only hope that this version of Batman stays on as DC’s primary Batman as they’ve got a lot of Dark Knights running around the multiverse! 

The Adam Project

What happens when Ryan Reynolds, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Garner, and Zoe Saldana feature in a film together? You get a heartwarming tale sprinkled with a lot of action. The film features Ryan Reynolds as a pilot from the future who goes back in time and meets his younger self while trying to discover the reason behind his wife’s disappearance. The film was helmed by director Shawn Levy who is all set to direct the upcoming Deadpool 3, so the project rests in safe hands! 

Elvis

While we definitely need a break from the biopic trend going around in mainstream movies, Bas Luhrmann’s directorial Elvis is one film I do not mind. The film is based on the life of the musical star Elvis from his rise to fame to his death and everything in between. It features a top-notch performance by Austin Butler as Elvis Presley and Tom Hanks as Colonel Tom Parker. While the film focuses a lot more on the Colonel’s character than Elvis himself, it manages to pull an interesting narrative overall. Watch it for the trippy visuals! 

Minions The Rise of Gru

Minions The Rise of Gru sheerly made it to the list by its influence on the world when it was released back in July 2022. The ironic meme posting around the film actually made me go buy a ticket for the film and watch it surrounded by a bunch of kids having the times of their lives! Funnily enough, Minions The Rise of Gru was one of the few films in Hollywood in 2022 that actually managed to get near the billion-dollar mark at the box office at a budget of only $80 million. 

Enola Holmes 2

If you’re interested in suspense thriller films that don’t lean towards a dark narrative then Enola Holmes 2 is the perfect little film for you. This film features Millie Bobby Brown’s Enola Holmes starting her own agency and struggling to make ends meet until the day a factory worker seeks her help to find her missing sister. The film also features a hearty cameo by Henry Cavill which is a treat to say the least. 

Special Mentions – 

Prey
Thiruchitrambalam
Beast
Vikram
Zombivili
The Gray Man
Turning Red
Don’t Worry Darling
Orphan: First Kill
Ambulance

Give it a whirl – Extreme Sports you should endeavour before stepping into 2023

Hey, 9 to 5 buddies! Spotify wrapped has come, and it’s time to buckle up to mark something off of your bucket list. Due to our busy lifestyle, most of us haven’t tried something exciting which can be an unforgettable experience for the rest of our lives, right? Well, you don’t have to worry about it, as we still have a few weeks left, and with a proper plan, one can definitely make things happen.

Bungee Jumping

We have moved on from the likings of parasailing, scuba diving, paragliding and etc. Now, one of the most popular and extremely adventurous sports in India is Bungee Jumping. The activity involves jumping from a tall structure while connected to a large elastic cord, and definitely not for the faint-hearted. Bungee Jumping has gained popularity in the last couple of years, but due to its extremeness, only a few people have dared to take a faith of leap. Are you up for it?

Free Solo Climbing

When they said your fate is in your hands, they were talking about Free Solo Climbing. It is one of the most popular extreme sports of current times, in which only madcaps can dare to participate. You must climb the steep mountains without a harness or any safety equipment, and every time you mistime the judgement, death is ready to catch you.

Running of the Bulls

Yes, you’ve guessed it right. We’ve witnessed the thrill of the running of the bulls in the movie Zindagi Naa Milegi Dobara, and we’ve seen how the lead characters survived in the game. However, in real life, if you travel to participate in the sport and decide to make a reel of it for your beloved social media handles, people will find splashes of your blood in La Tomatina.

Ice Climbing

Without agility, strength and endurance, no one can come back alive from extreme sports; that’s why they’re named like that. Ice climbing is one such sport where you need to climb dangerous snow-capped mountains, and it requires a lot of preparation. The sport definitely requires a lot of planning, as one must be extra careful and pay attention to the weather conditions before beginning the climb.

The Cage of Death

You must’ve heard animal lovers exaggerating at the zoo, “people should be in cages instead of animals.” Well, wait until you visit the Austalia’s cage of death, especially Darwin’s Crocosaurus Cove, where they put you in a safely enclosed glass box, and the deadliest reptiles, like crocodiles, roam around you freely. Sometimes, even tries to knock you out of the box.

Cave Diving

You won’t believe it, but only 5% of the ocean has been explored and charted by humans. So, you still have a chance to name something after your name, but before that, you must know how to swim through the caves. Even excellent scuba drivers can turn claustrophobic, that’s the kind of danger these caves holds within. Well, if you decide to take the cave diving challenge by any chance, keep yourself safe from the cave ceilings.

Best Music Albums of 2022 – The Pop Melodies!

The western music industry had taken backstage due to the COVID pandemic which led to a number of canceled shows and delayed albums. However, with 2022 bringing back live shows with relaxed COVID protocols and artists being able to get back on track with recordings and releases, this year saw an influx of new music dropping throughout. Be it Drake, Beyoncé, or Harry Styles, the heavy hitters of pop music dropped new music left and right. Here is a look at all the best albums from 2022 –

The Weeknd – Dawn FM

The Weeknd had big shoes to fill with Dawn Fm as his 2020 album After Hours was a blockbuster hit globally. The 2022 album actually showcased how far Abel has come as a performer if we look back at his 2011 mixtape – House Of Balloons. The Weeknd’s music has often followed a theme of light/dark having multiple yin-and-yang elements sprinkled across all over his music. With Dawn FM, the artist takes the same theme to the next level and maybe even concludes. For what can be called his most upbeat album to date, Dawn FM by The Weeknd makes his way to our top albums list. 

Favorite Track – Here We Go… Again (ft. Tyler, The Creator) 

Harry Style – Harry’s House

I’ve spent the better part of my 2022 watching Harry Styles perform all over the world with his fans screaming ‘Leave America’ wherever he sings ‘As It Was’ live. And let me tell you, I had a ball! The wonderboy of One Direction has now evolved to become a solo showstopper and the Harry’s House album is a testament to what was waiting to be unleashed for all those years. It’s always a rocky road when a teen idol becomes a solo star and Harry’s own One Direction team is an example of the same. However, the artist has managed to break free from the shackles of the ‘boyband’ image and build a solo brand for himself. Harry’s House is a delightful entry to our top albums list. 

Favorite Track – As It Was 

Taylor Swift – Midnights

The imprint Taylor Swift has left on modern pop culture is unparalleled, but I am not a big fan of the megastar. While I love some of her songs, others not so much. But her Midnights album was the one where a completely evolved Taylor was presented to her fans and general listeners. Swifties around the world too were taken aback by the self-loathing and reflective nature of the lyrics this album had which was a departure from Taylor’s usual expression of music. The unfiltered and raw version of this pop icon makes Midnights a worthy mention in our list. 

Favorite Track – Anti-Hero

Drake / 21 Savage – Her Loss

Drake’s Honestly, Nevermind album was a disappointment for me where tracks like Calling My Name and Sticky failed to intrigue the music enthusiast inside me. However, with Her Loss, we were presented with a much more carefree Drake coupled with 21 Savage’s exhilarating collaboration. The new collab between the two artists felt like a direct and fitting revolution from 2009’s So Far Gone. With Her Loss, the Certified Lover Boy makes his way to our best album list in all his Canadian glory. 

Favorite Track – Rich Flex

Kendrick Lamar – Mr. Morale & The Big Steppers

It took five years for Kendrick Lamar to drop an album after ‘Damn’ and all I can say is that it was worth the wait! The Pulitzer-winning rapper explored the depths of his soul with his new album as opposed to serving the chartbuster formula like his previous one. In his fifth and glorious studio album, Lamar has turned his back on the limelight of being a pop icon and highlighted his own insecurities and belief systems which is a daring feat for a star of his magnitude to do. 

Favorite Track – We Cry Together (ft. Taylor Paige)

Top OTT Shows of 2022

Cubicles S2

Where to watch – Sony LIV

Hope you’ve already experienced the simplicity of storytelling with the second season of TVF’s Cubicles. Just like its name, the series takes us through fundamental ironies that exist in every corporate employee’s life. The lighthearted series attaches you with its characters, especially to the lead, portrayed by Piyush Prajapati, as he struggles to strike a work-life balance.

Rocket Boys

Where to watch – Sony LIV

Sony LIV came out from the shadow and fetched the limelight with Scam 1992, but since then, nothing much appreciable has been released on the platform. With the release of Rockey Boys, which depicts the efforts of Indian scientists Dr Homi J Bhabha and Dr Vikram Sarabhai, the drought ended as the series became one of the most viewed OTT shows of 2022.

Panchayat S2

Where to watch – Amazon Prime

TVF has a knack for creating shows that stay with us for a long time, and Panchayat is one of the best from them. The 2nd season of the show continues from where it left off and takes us into the happening life of people from Phulera town. The show makes you laugh as well as cry, and you will only end up relating with every character while saying, “Dekh raha hain Binod?”

Hostel Daze S3

Where to watch – Amazon Prime

Add engineering to anything, and it will never disappoint you. Hostel Daze is a series based on engineering students’ life in a hostel and is known for maintaining its quality content. The third season of the show depicts the story of the guys entering into the third year of engineering, and with the cleaver one-liners, even without Adarsh Gaurav, it manages to hit the sweet spot.

Modern Love: Mumbai

Where to watch – Amazon Prime

Modern Love: Mumbai is the counterpart chapter based on the popular American anthology Modern Love: New York. When they decided to add Mumbai to the title, beautiful chaos automatically entered the storyline. The anthology series illustrates six love stories in the city, and in the end, they all merge into one, of course, in the final episode of the show.

Stranger Things S4

Where to watch – Netflix

What we believe is numbers, and if you look at the numbers, the 4th season of the sci-fi horror show Stranger Things is the best of all. Over the years, along with the audience, the characters have become more mature, overcoming some stereotypes they would’ve been associated with in the previous seasons. The season will go down in history, especially for the acting.

Wednesday

Where to watch – Netflix

The coming-of-age supernatural horror comedy is all about Wednesday Addams, a teenage girl who struggles to connect with her schoolmates due to her cold and emotionless personality. The protagonist, Wednesday, played by Jenna Ortega, with psychic powers, single-handedly saves the show with her brilliant performance.

1899

Where to watch – Netflix

Another mindblowing show from the creators of one of the greatest web series of all time, Dark. The horror mystery show with a sci-fi edge takes place on a passenger ship, where people from different countries are on board, along with at least one hidden secret. The series shows a lot of time travel, flashbacks, creepy children and secret portals, which forces you to binge-watch.

Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

Where to watch – Netflix

We have seen many movies and shows depicting the story of the serial killer, but Dahmer stands right at the top as the series shows the most accurate rendition of what happened. The show is based on the life of a serial killer, Jeffery Dahmer, beautifully portrayed by Evan Peters not only shows how he did it but dives deep into the whys and creates a surge of dread in your spine.

The Boys S3

Where to watch – Amazon Prime

Nothing to say about The Boys Season 3, it’s the only OTT show we’ve included in the list, and most of you must have already watched it. If you haven’t, grab a bowl of popcorn this weekend and finish it as soon as possible. The show is developed by Eric Kripke for Amazon Prime Video and will satisfy you as it shows the dark and political side of the superheroes.

The Super Mario Bros Movie trailer builds a colorful world

There’s always skepticism when it comes to major Hollywood studios jumping on the video game bandwagon. Films based on popular video games have been less than impressive in the past, 2022’s Uncharted was a good example of the same. On the other hand, there also has been Sonic The Hedgehog films that successfully managed to grab the essence of the blue speedster. Now, Nintendo and Illumination have launched the full trailer for their upcoming The Mario Bros Movie which looks like another step in the right direction. Check out the trailer – HERE

The Super Mario Bros. Movie trailer launched

While the first teaser was just a mere introduction to the film’s villain, Bowser, and a little glimpse of Mario, the second trailer is a full-fledged look at what’s waiting in store for fans. The bigger idea of the movie’s plot revolves around Bowser’s quest to conquer the world while Princess Peach tries to stop him. By the looks of it, protagonist Mario is still finding his footing as a hero. He gets beat up by Donkey Kong, attacked by Cheep Cheeps, and even fails to land a simple platform while karting.

The trailer is full of fan service. However, one interesting aspect of the film is the character development of Princess Peach from a damsel in distress to a butt-kicking savior. Making Peach an active part of the narrative is surely a welcoming change. The trailer successfully manages to integrate parts of the existing Mario games. Yoshi Island, the original Donkey Kong game and Karting on the Rainbow Road are all present in the trailer making it the perfect gift for Mario fans! While Chris Pratt’s voice as the iconic character was a matter of concern for hardcore fans when it was initially announced, the actor seems to have done a pretty good job!

Social media companies to be fined if they fail to remove self-harm content in UK

Trigger Warning: Mention of suicide and self-harm 

How many times have you stumbled upon questionable or grotesque content on social media and asked yourself – How the hell did this get here?

It has been more times than one would imagine (which is zero) and government authorities around the world have not shown any interest in trying to regulate self-harm/suicide content on social media, until now! The Britain government has taken the first step to stop the spread of self-harm content on social media and ordered to fine social media companies that fail to remove such content. This decision has been taken as a part of the overhaul of legislation governing online behavior.

UK to fine social media companies over self-harm content

The debate about government organizations infiltrating social media platforms to promote their agenda has been long and tiring. While I stand tall on the belief that a governing body has no right to make definitive changes to what people say on social media as it tampers with people’s right to an opinion, this is one aspect where I do not mind the government doing so. There has been an influx of suicide-related content on social media that indirectly encourages the act as opposed to educating people about it. Normalizing content that in a way ‘promotes’ suicide or self-harm undoubtedly has a lasting effect on young impressionable minds and society as a whole.

Recently, Britain’s culture, media, and sports ministry issued a statement saying that it now needs social media firms to block a wide range of content. “Social media firms can no longer remain silent bystanders … and they’ll face fines for allowing this abusive and destructive behavior to continue on their platforms under our laws,” said UK’s Digital Secretary Michelle Donelan.

The proposal aims to block videos and images viewed by 14-year-old Molly Russell whose death in 2017 sparked a public conversation about social media content. The investigation following her death concluded that social media platforms had fed content to her that romanticized the acts of self-harm by younger people. Social media algorithms are known to feed content a user indulges in thus the allegation of such platforms feeding malicious content does not feel far-fetched.

While Britain is the first country to take this step towards the right decision, one can only hope the rest of the countries follow suit!

If you or anybody you know who is struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts and need help can reach out to the numbers listed below – 

  • Mitram Foundation – 08025722573 or 9019708133
  • AASRA – 91-9820466726
  • Lifeline Foundation – 9088030303
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